U.S. patent number 9,881,752 [Application Number 14/957,193] was granted by the patent office on 2018-01-30 for rotary-type switch.
This patent grant is currently assigned to KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO, TRAM INC.. The grantee listed for this patent is KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO, TRAM, INC.. Invention is credited to Makoto Harazawa, Mizuki Kamiya, Nobuaki Saito, Hiroaki Yamaguchi, Yuta Yamanishi.
United States Patent |
9,881,752 |
Harazawa , et al. |
January 30, 2018 |
Rotary-type switch
Abstract
A rotary-type switch for controlling vehicle lighting is
provided. The rotary-type switch may include a housing portion that
includes multiple positions that respectively correspond to
multiple operation modes and a rotary dial being configured to
rotate relative to the housing portion to select an operation mode
of the rotary-type switch based on a position identified by a
selection indicator. A controller is configured to control and
operation mode of the rotary-type switch based on a vehicular power
state and when the vehicular power state is OFF, regardless of the
position of the selection indicator corresponding to the selected
operation mode on either the housing portion or the rotary dial,
the controller controls the rotary-type switch to automatically set
the operation mode to that defined by an initial-operation position
corresponding to a predetermined initial-operation mode.
Inventors: |
Harazawa; Makoto (Novi, MI),
Kamiya; Mizuki (Northville, MI), Saito; Nobuaki
(Farmington Hills, MI), Yamanishi; Yuta (Ypsilanti, MI),
Yamaguchi; Hiroaki (Novi, MI) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TRAM, INC.
KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO |
Plymouth
Aichi |
MI
N/A |
US
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI
SEISAKUSHO (Aichi, JP)
TRAM INC. (Plymouth, MI)
|
Family
ID: |
57354152 |
Appl.
No.: |
14/957,193 |
Filed: |
December 2, 2015 |
Prior Publication Data
|
|
|
|
Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20170162347 A1 |
Jun 8, 2017 |
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G05G
1/08 (20130101); H01H 9/56 (20130101); B60Q
1/0076 (20130101); H01H 19/025 (20130101); B60K
37/06 (20130101); H01H 19/11 (20130101); H01H
19/54 (20130101); H01H 19/14 (20130101); H01H
25/065 (20130101); G05G 5/04 (20130101); G05G
5/06 (20130101); B60K 2370/34 (20190501); B60K
2370/126 (20190501); B60K 2370/332 (20190501); B60K
2370/158 (20190501); H01H 2221/01 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
H01H
19/11 (20060101); H01H 19/54 (20060101); H01H
19/02 (20060101); H01H 19/14 (20060101); H01H
9/56 (20060101); H01H 25/06 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;200/564,11R,14,336 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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10 2013 021 874 |
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Jun 2015 |
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DE |
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1 443 533 |
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Aug 2004 |
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EP |
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2015-107669 |
|
Jun 2015 |
|
JP |
|
2010/076589 |
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Jul 2010 |
|
WO |
|
Other References
Extended European Search Report for EP 16199290.4 dated Apr. 12,
2017. cited by applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Figueroa; Felix O
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Greenblum & Bernstein,
P.L.C.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A rotary-type switch for controlling vehicle lighting,
comprising: a stationary housing portion that includes a plurality
of positions that respectively correspond to a plurality of
operation modes of the rotary-type switch; and a latch-type rotary
dial that includes a selection indicator and surrounds the
stationary housing portion, the latch-type rotary dial being
configured to selectively rotate relative to the stationary housing
portion to align the selection indicator with one of the plurality
of positions for an operation mode selection, wherein a controller
is configured to control a position of the latch-type rotary dial
corresponding to one of the plurality of operation modes of the
rotary-type switch based on one of an OFF vehicular power state or
an ON vehicular power state, the plurality of positions includes a
position that is defined by a push button that is provided at the
stationary housing portion, the plurality of operation modes
includes an operation mode defined by actuation of the push button,
when the push button is actuated, regardless of the selected
operation mode corresponding to the position identified by the
selection indicator, the controller controls a plurality of
electrical circuit switches corresponding to the plurality of
operation modes of the rotary-type switch to automatically set the
operation mode to the operation mode defined by actuation of the
push button, the plurality of positions includes an
initial-operation position corresponding to a predetermined
initial-operation mode of the plurality of operation modes, and
when the vehicular power state is OFF, regardless of the position
of the selection indicator corresponding to the selected operation
mode, the controller controls the plurality of electrical circuit
switches corresponding to the plurality of operation modes of the
rotary-type switch to automatically set the operation mode to the
predetermined initial-operation mode corresponding to the
initial-operation position such that when the vehicular power state
is ON, the predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated.
2. The rotary-type switch of claim 1, wherein the position of the
push button is the initial-operation position corresponding to the
predetermined initial-operation mode, and when the vehicular power
state is OFF, regardless of the position of the selection indicator
corresponding to the selected operation mode, the controller
controls the plurality of electrical circuit switches corresponding
to the plurality of operation modes of the rotary-type switch to
automatically set the operation mode to the predetermined
initial-operation mode corresponding to the initial-operation
position at the push button such that when the vehicular power
state is ON, the predetermined initial-operation mode is
actuated.
3. The rotary-type switch of claim 1, one of the plurality of
positions defined outside of the push button is the
initial-operation position corresponding to the predetermined
initial-operation mode, and when the vehicular power state is OFF,
regardless of the position of the selection indicator corresponding
to the selected operation mode, the controller controls an actuator
to automatically rotate the selection indicator to the
initial-operation position corresponding to the predetermined
initial-operation mode such that when the vehicular power state is
ON, the predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated.
4. A rotary-type switch for controlling vehicle lighting,
comprising: a panel portion that includes a plurality of positions
that respectively correspond to a plurality of operation modes of
the rotary-type switch, wherein each position of the plurality of
positions includes a selection indicator that identifies a selected
operation mode; and a momentary-type rotary dial that is biased
toward a home position and configured to rotate relative to the
panel portion and select one of the plurality of operation modes at
the corresponding position identified by the corresponding
selection indicator on the panel portion, the momentary-type rotary
dial including a prioritized-access position corresponding to a
prioritized-access operation mode identified by a
prioritized-access selection indicator defined at a push button
provided on the momentary-type rotary dial, wherein a controller is
configured to control an operation mode of the rotary-type switch
based on one of an OFF vehicular power state or an ON vehicular
power state, when the push button is actuated, regardless of the
selected operation mode on either the panel portion or the push
button, the controller controls the rotary-type switch to set the
operation mode to that defined by actuation of the push button, and
when the vehicular power state is OFF, regardless of the position
of the selection indicator corresponding to the selected operation
mode on either the panel portion or the push button, the controller
controls a plurality of electrical circuit switches corresponding
to the plurality of operation modes of the rotary-type switch to
automatically set the operation mode to a predetermined
initial-operation mode defined by an initial-operation position
corresponding to one of either the push button or one of the
plurality of positions on the panel portion, such that when the
vehicular power state is ON, the predetermined initial-operation
mode is actuated.
5. The rotary-type switch of claim 4, wherein the momentary-type
rotary dial includes a detent on a rear surface thereof that is
configured to engage a rotation detector, the detent is defined by
a plurality of inclined surfaces, each of the inclined surfaces
corresponding to one of the plurality of positions corresponding to
one of the plurality of operation modes identified by the
corresponding selection indicator on the panel portion, when the
momentary-type rotary dial is in the home position, a portion of
the rotation detector is retained within the detent, when the
momentary-type rotary dial is partially rotated within a
predetermined rotation range, a first inclined surface of the
plurality of inclined surfaces moves relative to the rotation
detector such that the rotary-type switch is actuated to select one
of the plurality of operation modes identified by the corresponding
selection indicator on the panel portion, and when the
momentary-type rotary dial is further rotated within the
predetermined rotation range, the rotation detector is moved
relative to a second inclined surface of the plurality of inclined
surfaces such that the rotary-type switch is actuated to select
another one of the plurality of operation modes identified by the
corresponding selection indicator on the panel portion, the first
inclined surface having a slope angle different than a slope angle
of the second inclined surface such that a change in slope angle
between any of the plurality of inclined surfaces corresponds to a
different position and operation mode identified by the
corresponding selection indicator on the panel portion.
6. The rotary-type switch of claim 4, wherein the rotary-type
switch is configured to associate the number of rotations of the
momentary-type rotary dial away from the home position and back
with one of the plurality of positions corresponding to one of the
plurality of operation modes identified by the corresponding
selection indicator on the panel portion, and the selection
indicator is an illuminable light source.
Description
BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Disclosure
The present disclosure relates to the field of vehicular lighting
systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to
rotary-type switches that control exterior lighting of a
vehicle.
2. Background Information
Exterior vehicular lighting systems are configured to operate in
various ways depending on road conditions, governmental regulations
and user preference. These lighting systems have been known to be
controlled by various rotary-type switches that require user input
so as to allow motorists to conveniently select an operation mode
of the lighting system according to their needs and/or
preference.
Summary of the Disclosure
However, because existing rotary-type switches are dependent on
motorist user input there are growing concerns related to motorist
safety and user error in the proper operation and usage of the
existing lighting systems when the vehicle is being operated. Thus,
there is a need to design a rotary-type switch that increases
motorist safety and minimizes user input.
According to non-limiting embodiments of the present application, a
rotary-type switch for controlling vehicle lighting may be
provided. The rotary-type switch may include a stationary housing
portion that includes a plurality of positions that respectively
correspond to a plurality of operation modes of the rotary-type
switch, and a latch-type rotary dial that includes a selection
indicator and surrounds the stationary housing portion. The
latch-type rotary dial may be configured to selectively rotate
relative to the stationary housing portion to align the selection
indicator with one of the plurality of positions for an operation
mode selection.
In embodiments, a controller may be configured to control a
position of the latch-type rotary dial corresponding to one of the
plurality of operation modes of the rotary-type switch based on one
of an OFF vehicular power state or an ON vehicular power state.
In embodiments, the plurality of positions may include an
initial-operation position corresponding to a predetermined
initial-operation mode of the plurality of operation modes, and
when the vehicular power state is OFF, regardless of the position
of the selection indicator corresponding to the selected operation
mode on the stationary housing portion, the controller may control
the latch-type rotary dial to automatically rotate to the
initial-operation position corresponding to the predetermined
initial-operation mode, such that when the vehicular power state is
ON, the predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated.
In embodiments, the plurality of positions may include at least one
rotation end position that prevents the latch-type rotary dial from
further rotation in a rotational direction, the latch-type rotary
dial may be configured to be releasably held at each of the
plurality of positions, and the selection indicator may be an
illuminable light source.
According to non-limiting embodiments of the present application,
the rotary-type switch for controlling vehicle lighting may include
a stationary housing portion that includes a plurality of positions
that respectively correspond to a plurality of operation modes of
the rotary-type switch, where each position of the plurality of
positions includes a selection indicator that identifies a selected
operation mode, and a free rotation-type rotary dial that surrounds
the stationary housing portion and is configured to freely rotate
relative to the stationary housing portion and select one of the
plurality of operation modes at the corresponding position
identified by the selection indicator on the stationary housing
portion.
In embodiments, a controller may be configured to set an operation
mode of the rotary-type switch based on one of an OFF vehicular
power state or an ON vehicular power state, and the plurality of
positions includes an initial-operation position corresponding to a
predetermined initial-operation mode, and when the vehicular power
state is OFF, regardless of the operation mode identified by the
selection indicator at any one of the plurality of positions on the
stationary housing portion, the controller controls the rotary-type
switch to automatically set the operation mode to the predetermined
initial-operation mode corresponding to the initial-operation
position identified by the selection indicator on the stationary
housing portion, such that when the vehicular power state is ON,
the predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated.
In embodiments, the rotary-type switch is configured to associate a
rotation range of the free rotation-type rotary dial with one of
the plurality of positions corresponding to one of the plurality of
operation modes identified by the corresponding selection indicator
on the stationary housing portion, and the selection indicator is
an illuminable light source.
According to non-limiting embodiments of the present application,
the rotary-type switch for controlling vehicle lighting may include
a stationary housing portion that includes a plurality of positions
that respectively correspond to a plurality of operation modes of
the rotary-type switch, and a latch-type rotary dial that includes
a selection indicator and surrounds the stationary housing portion,
the latch-type rotary dial being configured to selectively rotate
relative to the stationary housing portion to align the selection
indicator with one of the plurality of positions for an operation
mode selection.
In embodiments, a controller may be configured to control a
position of the latch-type rotary dial corresponding to one of the
plurality of operation modes of the rotary-type switch based on one
of an OFF vehicular power state or an ON vehicular power state, the
plurality of positions may include a position that is defined by a
push button that is provided at the stationary housing portion, and
the plurality of operation modes may include an operation mode
defined by actuation of the push button.
In embodiments, when the push button is actuated, regardless of the
selected operation mode corresponding to the position identified by
the selection indicator, the controller controls the rotary-type
switch to automatically set the operation mode to the operation
mode defined by actuation of the push button.
In embodiments, the plurality of positions includes an
initial-operation position corresponding to a predetermined
initial-operation mode of the plurality of operation modes, and
when the vehicular power state is OFF, regardless of the position
of the selection indicator corresponding to the selected operation
mode, the controller controls the rotary-type switch to
automatically set the operation mode to the predetermined
initial-operation mode corresponding to the initial-operation
position such that when the vehicular power state is ON, the
predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated.
In embodiments, the position of the push button is the
initial-operation position corresponding to the predetermined
initial-operation mode, and when the vehicular power state is OFF,
regardless of the position of the selection indicator corresponding
to the selected operation mode, the controller controls the
rotary-type switch to automatically set the operation mode to the
predetermined initial-operation mode corresponding to the
initial-operation position at the push button such that when the
vehicular power state is ON, the predetermined initial-operation
mode is actuated.
In embodiments, one of the plurality of positions defined outside
of the push button is the initial-operation position corresponding
to the predetermined initial-operation mode, and when the vehicular
power state is OFF, regardless of the position of the selection
indicator corresponding to the selected operation mode, the
controller controls the latch-type rotary dial to automatically
rotate the selection indicator to the initial-operation position
corresponding to the predetermined initial-operation mode such that
when the vehicular power state is ON, the predetermined
initial-operation mode is actuated.
According to non-limiting embodiments of the present application,
the rotary-type switch for controlling vehicle lighting may include
a panel portion that includes a plurality of positions that
respectively correspond to a plurality of operation modes of the
rotary-type switch, where each position of the plurality of
positions includes a selection indicator that identifies a selected
operation mode, and a momentary-type rotary dial that is biased
toward a home position and configured to rotate relative to the
panel portion and select one of the plurality of operation modes at
the corresponding position identified by the corresponding
selection indicator on the panel portion.
In embodiments, the momentary-type rotary dial may include a
prioritized-access position corresponding to a prioritized-access
operation mode identified by a prioritized-access selection
indicator defined at a push button provided on the momentary-type
rotary dial.
In embodiments, a controller may be configured to control an
operation mode of the rotary-type switch based on one of an OFF
vehicular power state or an ON vehicular power state, and when the
push button is actuated, regardless of the selected operation mode
on either the panel portion or the push button, the controller
controls the rotary-type switch to set the operation mode to that
defined by actuation of the push button, and when the vehicular
power state is OFF, regardless of the position of the selection
indicator corresponding to the selected operation mode on either
the panel portion or the push button, the controller controls the
rotary-type switch to automatically set the operation mode to a
predetermined initial-operation mode defined by an
initial-operation position corresponding to one of either the push
button or one of the plurality of positions on the panel portion,
such that when the vehicular power state is ON, the predetermined
initial-operation mode is actuated.
In embodiments, the momentary-type rotary dial may include a detent
on a rear surface thereof that is configured to engage a rotation
detector.
In embodiments, the detent is defined by a plurality of inclined
surfaces, each of the inclined surfaces corresponding to one of the
plurality of positions corresponding to one of the plurality of
operation modes identified by the corresponding selection indicator
on the panel portion.
In embodiments, when the momentary-type rotary dial is in the home
position, a portion of the rotation detector is retained within the
detent, and when the momentary-type rotary dial is partially
rotated within a predetermined rotation range, a first inclined
surface of the plurality of inclined surfaces moves relative to the
rotation detector such that the rotary-type switch is actuated to
select one of the plurality of operation modes identified by the
corresponding selection indicator on the panel portion. When the
momentary-type rotary dial is further rotated within the
predetermined rotation range, the rotation detector is moved
relative to a second inclined surface of the plurality of inclined
surfaces such that the rotary-type switch is actuated to select
another one of the plurality of operation modes identified by the
corresponding selection indicator on the panel portion.
In embodiments, the first inclined surface has a slope angle
different than a slope angle of the second inclined surface such
that a change in slope angle between any of the plurality of
inclined surfaces corresponds to a different position and operation
mode identified by the corresponding selection indicator on the
panel portion.
In embodiments, the rotary switch may be configured to associate
the number of rotations of the momentary-type rotary dial away from
the home position and back with one of the plurality of positions
corresponding to one of the plurality of operation modes identified
by the corresponding selection indicator on the panel portion, and
the selection indicator is an illuminable light source.
Other aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become
apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings, illustrated by way of example, the
spirit of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGS. 1A and 1B show an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a
latch-type rotary switch, according to aspects of the present
disclosure.
FIG. 1C shows an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a latch
mechanism of a latch-type rotary switch, according to aspects of
the present disclosure.
FIG. 1D shows an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a stopper
structure of a latch-type rotary switch, according to aspects of
the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of an exemplary, non-limiting
embodiment of a rotary-type switch control system, according to
aspects of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 shows an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a rotary-type
switch electrical circuit suitable for use with a latch-type rotary
switch, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 4A and 4B show an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a
free rotation-type rotary switch, according to aspects of the
present disclosure.
FIG. 4C shows an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a side view
of a free rotation-type rotary switch, according to aspects of the
present disclosure.
FIG. 5 shows an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a rotary-type
switch electrical circuit suitable for use with a free
rotation-type rotary switch, according to aspects of the present
disclosure.
FIGS. 6A and 6B show an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a
latch-type rotary switch including a push button, according to
aspects of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 7A and 7B show another exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of
a latch-type rotary switch including a push button, according to
aspects of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 8A and 8B show an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a
momentary-type rotary switch, according to aspects of the present
disclosure.
FIGS. 9A and 9B show another exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of
a momentary-type rotary switch, according to aspects of the present
disclosure.
FIG. 9C shows a side view of an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment
of a momentary-type rotary switch, according to aspects of the
present disclosure.
FIGS. 10A and 10B respectively show an exploded view of an
exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a momentary-type rotary
switch and a perspective view of a momentary-type rotary dial,
according to aspects of the present disclosure.
FIG. 10C shows a partial cross-sectional view of an engagement part
of the momentary-type rotary dial shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B,
according to aspects of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 shows an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of a
rotary-type switch electrical circuit suitable for use with a
momentary-type rotary switch, according to aspects of the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In view of the foregoing, the present disclosure, through one or
more of its various aspects, embodiments and/or specific features
or sub-components, is thus intended to bring out one or more of the
advantages as specifically noted below.
Methods described herein are illustrative examples, and as such are
not intended to require or imply that any particular process of any
embodiment be performed in the order presented. Words such as
"thereafter," "then," "next," etc. are not intended to limit the
order of the processes, and these words are instead used to guide
the reader through the description of the methods. Further, any
reference to claim elements in the singular, for example, using the
articles "a," "an" or "the", is not to be construed as limiting the
element to the singular.
A non-limiting embodiment of a latch-type rotary switch 100 will be
described with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 2 and 3. As shown
in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the latch-type rotary switch 100 controls an
exterior vehicle lighting system. The latch-type rotary switch 100
includes a stationary housing portion 110 that includes a plurality
of positions 112, 114, 116, 118 that respectively correspond to a
plurality of operation modes of the rotary-type switch. In
embodiments, the operation modes relate to functions of the vehicle
lighting system. For example, the operation modes may include an
OFF function, a TAIL (or hazard light) function, HEAD (or low beam)
function, and an AUTO (day-time running light) function. The
operation modes may also include a high beam function as well as
operation modes for specialty vehicles (e.g., police, military, and
industrial vehicles, and boats, planes, motorcycles and trains)
including, e.g., a spot-light function, an emergency light with or
without an optional siren function, etc. One of the plurality of
positions 112, 114, 116, 118 is an initial-operation position
corresponding to a predetermined initial-operation mode of the
plurality of operation modes. In embodiments, position 118 may be
the initial-operation position and the predetermined
initial-operation mode may correspond to operation of the AUTO
function (or day-time running lights).
The latch-type rotary switch 100 also includes a latch-type rotary
dial 120 that includes a selection indicator 130 and surrounds the
stationary housing portion 110. The latch-type rotary dial 120 is
configured to selectively rotate relative to the stationary housing
portion 110 to align the selection indicator 130 with one of the
plurality of positions 112, 114, 116, 118 for an operation mode
selection. The latch-type rotary dial 120 is generally cylindrical
in shape although it is contemplated that the latch-type rotary
dial 120 may be any shape suitable for convenient grasping and
rotation of the same including, e.g., cube-shaped, polygonal-shaped
or any other ergonomic shape. In embodiments, the latch-type rotary
dial 120 is configured to be releasably held by a latch mechanism
at each of the plurality of positions via a clockwise or
counter-clockwise rotation. For example, during operation of the
vehicle, the motorist may rotate the latched dial to switch from
the AUTO function to the HEAD function to improve road vision under
night driving conditions.
As shown, e.g., in FIG. 1C, a non-limiting embodiment of a latch
mechanism 140 is shown. The latch mechanism 140 is defined by
latching surfaces 145 and a biasing pin 150. Each of latching
surface 145 is associated with one of the plurality of positions
112, 114, 116, 118 corresponding to each of the plurality of
operation modes. The latching surfaces 145 are defined by an inner
wall of a casing 155 of the latch-type rotary dial assembly 100 and
the biasing pin 150 projects from an outer peripheral surface of a
rotor 160 disposed within the casing 155. The biasing pin 150 is
configured to disengagably latch with each of the latching surfaces
145 defined by the casing 155. The rotor 160 is connected to the
latch-type rotary dial 120 so as to rotate with the rotation of the
latch-type rotary dial 120.
When the biasing pin 150 is in a resting state, the biasing pin 150
is biased to project outward from the peripheral surface of the
rotor 160 to secure the biasing pin 150 in one of the latch
surfaces 145. During rotation of the latch-type rotary dial 120,
the biasing pin 150 is urged against its biasing direction and away
from the latching surface 145 back toward the rotor to allow the
latch-type rotary dial 120 to rotate so that the biasing pin 150 is
rotated to another latching surface 145 corresponding to another
operation mode. When the latch-type rotary dial 120 reaches the
position of the latching surface 145 corresponding to the selected
operation mode, the biasing pin 150 is returned to its rest
position so as to latch the biasing pin 150 into the latching
surface 145 and the latch-type rotary dial 120 into the selected
position corresponding to the selected operation mode. The latching
surfaces 145 are concave surfaces provided at spaced intervals
within the casing 155, although it is contemplated that the
latching surfaces 145 could be any discrete section of the casing
configured to selectively and releasably retain the biasing pin
150. The biasing pin 150 is a spherical pin biased by a spring,
although it is contemplated that the biasing pin 150 could be any
elastically deformable member such as an elastomeric projection
removably retained (e.g., friction fit) in each of the latching
surfaces 145. In addition, while the latching surface 145/biasing
pin 150 latch structure is described above, it is contemplated that
other latch mechanisms may be incorporated in the latch-type rotary
switch 100 to releasably hold the latch-type rotary dial 120 at
each of the plurality of positions via a clockwise or
counter-clockwise rotation. For example, a magnet-type latch
mechanism or a slide lock-type latch mechanism may be employed
instead.
The plurality of positions include at least one rotation end
position 112a or 118a defined such that the latch-type rotary dial
120 is prevented from further rotation in a rotational direction.
As shown, e.g., in FIG. 1D, one or more stoppers 170 may be
provided at the at least one rotation end position 112a or 118a to
prevent further rotation of the latch-type rotary dial 120 relative
to the stationary housing portion 110. The stopper(s) 170 may be
provided on the latch-type rotary dial 120, the stationary housing
portion 110, the casing 155, the rotor 160 or any combination of
the latch-type rotary switch structures, to stop the latch-type
rotary dial 120 from attempting to rotate to a position beyond the
rotation end position 112a or 118a. Such a structure is provided at
the rotation end position 112a or 118a not only to stop rotation
but also, e.g., to enhance feedback to the motorist that the
appropriate operation mode selection has been made when, e.g., the
motorist is otherwise focused on the road ahead and cannot rely on
visual confirmation of the selected mode operation.
As shown in FIG. 2, a controller 200 of the rotary-type switch
control system is configured to control a position of the
latch-type rotary dial 120 corresponding to one of the plurality of
operation modes of the rotary-type switch based on one of an OFF
vehicular power state or an ON vehicular power state. As shown, the
controller 200 is connected to at least one power switch 220 for
detecting the ON/OFF state of the vehicular power source, a
plurality of operation mode position sensors 240 for detecting the
plurality of positions corresponding to the plurality of operation
modes, and an actuator 260 for at least one of rotating the
latch-type rotary dial 120 to any one of the plurality of positions
based on input received by the controller 200, or for actuating a
switch associated with each of the plurality of operation position
sensors 240 so as to set the operation mode in any one of the
plurality of positions based on input received by the controller
200 (without rotation of the latch-type rotary dial 120), so as to
initiate the selected vehicle lighting function. In embodiments,
the controller 200 may be an electronic control unit (ECU) tasked
to control operation of the vehicle lighting system, the detected
power state may be a detection of a power state of a vehicle
engine, a vehicle battery, a vehicle electric motor, or any
combination of vehicle power sources required to drive a vehicle,
and the actuator 260 may be a motor that rotates the latch-type
rotary dial 120 and/or a sensor that communicates with the switches
so as to set the operation mode and allow the selected vehicle
lighting function to be initiated.
In operation, when the controller 200 detects that the vehicular
power state is OFF, regardless of the position of the selection
indicator 130 corresponding to the selected operation mode on the
stationary housing portion 110, the controller 200 controls the
latch-type rotary dial 120 to automatically rotate to the
initial-operation position corresponding to the predetermined
initial-operation mode such that when the vehicular power state is
ON, the predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated. As shown
in FIGS. 1A and 1B, when the vehicular power state is OFF the
selection indicator switches from the HEAD function to the AUTO
function. It is also contemplated that while the controller 200
detects that the vehicular power state is OFF, the controller 200
may also be configured to rotate the latch-type rotary dial 120
when the vehicular power states switches from OFF to ON to switch
from the HEAD function to the AUTO function.
Thus, e.g., when a motorist operates a vehicle, the motorist may
select a lighting system operation mode for performing the HEAD
function of the lighting system to illuminate the road during night
driving conditions. When operation of the vehicle ceases and the
engine is turned OFF, the user may fail to turn off the selected
operation mode. In this situation, the controller 200 detects that
the engine is OFF (via the power switch 220) and that the position
of the selection indicator 130 corresponds to the HEAD function
(via the operation mode position sensors 240). The controller 200
then communicates with the actuator 260 to automatically rotate the
latch-type rotary dial 120 from the HEAD function position 116 to
the initial-operation position 118 such that when the controller
200 detects that the vehicular power state is switched ON, the AUTO
function (i.e., the predetermined initial-operation mode), and not
the HEAD function, is actuated.
The selection indicator 130 is an illuminable light source (e.g.,
an LED) that illuminates when the selection indicator 130 is
aligned with a position that corresponds to a selected operation
mode. While the selection indicator 130 may illuminate on the
latch-type rotary dial 120, a symbol identifying the function of
the selected operation mode may also illuminate on the stationary
housing portion 110. In addition, the illuminated light sources may
have any one of or combination of multi-color, flashing or
intermittent lighting functionality as well.
As shown in FIG. 3, a rotary-type switch electrical circuit 300
suitable for use with the latch-type rotary switch 100 is provided.
When the vehicle power source is ON, the latch-type rotary dial 120
may be rotated such that a switch 310 corresponding to each of the
plurality of positions 112, 114, 116, 118 on the stationary housing
portion 110 may be actuated. When the latch-type rotary dial 120
aligns with any one of the plurality of positions 112, 114, 116,
118 the corresponding switch 310 completes the circuit and the
controller 200 communicates with the vehicle lighting system to
perform the function of the selected operation mode that
corresponds to the actuated switch 310.
When the vehicle power source is OFF, regardless of the aligned
position of the selection indicator and the selected operation
mode, the switch corresponding to the initial operation mode is
actuated and the controller 200 communicates with the actuator 260
to rotate the latch-type rotary dial 120 to the position
corresponding to the predetermined initial-operation mode. Once
aligned, the circuit is complete and when the controller 200
detects that the vehicular power state is switched ON, the
controller 200 communicates with the vehicle lighting system to
actuate the function of the predetermined initial-operation
mode.
A non-limiting embodiment of a free rotation-type rotary switch 400
will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 4A, 4B, 4C and 5. As
shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the free rotation-type rotary switch 400
controls an exterior vehicle lighting system. The free
rotation-type rotary switch 400 includes a stationary housing
portion 410 that includes a plurality of positions 412, 414, 416,
418 that respectively correspond to a plurality of operation modes
of the rotary-type switch, wherein each position of the plurality
of positions includes a selection indicator 432, 434, 436, 438 that
identifies a selected operation mode. As indicated above with
respect to the latch-type rotary switch 100, the operation modes
here may also relate to functions of the vehicle lighting system
and thus further discussion of the same is omitted here. In
embodiments, the plurality of positions 412, 414, 416, 418 includes
an initial-operation position, e.g., position 418, corresponding to
a predetermined initial-operation mode, e.g., the AUTO
function.
The selection indicators 432, 434, 436, 438 are provided on an
uppermost surface of the stationary housing portion 410 so that the
selected operation mode can be readily and reliably seen without
obstruction by other components of the free rotation-type rotary
switch 400.
The free rotation-type rotary switch 400 also includes a free
rotation-type rotary dial 420 that surrounds the stationary housing
portion 410 and is configured to freely rotate relative to the
stationary housing portion 410 and select one of the plurality of
operation modes at the corresponding position 412, 414, 416, 418
identified by the selection indicator 432, 434, 436, 438 on the
stationary housing portion 410. The free rotation-type rotary dial
420 is rotatable in either the clockwise or counterclockwise
direction such that regardless of the rotation direction, the free
rotation-type rotary dial 420 may be rotated to any one of the
plurality of positions corresponding to any one of the operation
modes.
The rotary switch is configured to associate a rotation range of
the free rotation-type rotary dial 420 with one of the plurality of
positions 412, 414, 416, 418 corresponding to one of the plurality
of operation modes identified by the corresponding selection
indicator on the stationary housing portion 410, the details of
which are described below.
As shown in FIG. 2, the rotary-type switch controller 200 may also
be configured to control a position of the free rotation-type
rotary dial 420 corresponding to one of the plurality of operation
modes of the rotary-type switch based on one of an OFF vehicular
power state or an ON vehicular power state. As shown, the
controller 200 is connected to at least one power switch 220 for
detecting the ON/OFF state of the vehicular power source, a
plurality of operation mode position sensors 240 for detecting the
plurality of positions 412, 414, 416, 418 corresponding to the
plurality of operation modes, and an actuator 260 for rotating the
free rotation-type rotary dial 420 to any one of the plurality of
positions 412, 414, 416, 418 based on input received by the
controller 200, or for actuating a switch associated with each of
the plurality of operation position sensors 240 so as to set the
operation mode in any one of the plurality of positions based on
input received by the controller 200 (without rotating the free
rotation-type rotary dial), so as to initiate the selected vehicle
lighting function. In embodiments, the free rotation-type rotary
dial 420 may include a notched-tooth pattern extending along a rear
side thereof.
As shown in FIG. 4C, the notched-tooth pattern of the rear side of
the free rotation-type rotary dial 420 is configured to interact
with the plurality of operation mode position sensors 240, e.g.,
via a detection switch. The controller 200 recognizes the rotation
direction of the free rotation-type rotary dial such that when the
free rotation-type rotary dial 420 rotates, in either the clockwise
or the counter-clockwise direction, the controller 200 detects a
rotation range between notched portions of the rear side of the
free rotation-type rotary dial 420 and associates a given rotation
range to a position on the stationary housing portion 410
corresponding to a selected operation mode. Thereafter, the
controller 200 can identify the selected position 412, 414, 416,
418 and communicate with the vehicle lighting system to perform the
function of the selected operation mode.
To detect a rotation range of the free rotation-type rotary dial
420 for purposes of selecting an operation mode, it is contemplated
that the free rotation-type rotary dial 420 or the stationary
housing portion 410 may serve as a momentary-type push button to
actuate the detection switch to trigger operation of the rotary
switch to determine the operation mode based on a given rotation of
the free rotation-type rotary dial 420.
In operation, when the vehicular power state is OFF, regardless of
the operation mode identified by the selection indicators 432, 434,
436, 438 at any one of the plurality of positions 412, 414, 416,
418 on the stationary housing portion 410, the controller 200
controls the free rotation-type rotary switch 400 to automatically
set the operation mode (without rotation of the free rotation-type
rotary dial 420) to the predetermined initial-operation mode
corresponding to the initial-operation position 418 such that when
the vehicular power state is ON, the predetermined
initial-operation mode is actuated. In embodiments, it is
contemplated that controller 200 controls the free rotation-type
rotary dial 420 (via the actuator 260) to automatically rotate to
the initial-operation position 418 corresponding to the
predetermined initial-operation mode. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B,
when the vehicular power source is OFF, the operation mode switches
from the TAIL function to the AUTO function, the predetermined
initial-operation mode.
As shown in FIG. 5, a rotary-type switch electrical circuit 500
suitable for use with the free rotation-type rotary switch 400 is
provided. When the vehicle power source is ON, the free
rotation-type rotary dial 420, movable in either the clockwise or
counterclockwise direction, may be rotated within a rotation range
such that a switch 510 corresponding to each of the plurality of
positions 412, 414, 416, 418 on the stationary housing portion 410
may be actuated. When the free rotation-type rotary dial 420
actuates the switch corresponding to any of the plurality of
positions 412, 414, 416, 418 the circuit is complete and the
controller 200 communicates with the vehicle lighting system to
perform the function of the selected operation mode that
corresponds to the actuated switch.
When the vehicle power source is OFF, regardless of the position
associated with the selected operation mode, the controller 200
communicates with the actuator 260 to rotate the free rotation-type
rotary dial 420 to the position corresponding to the predetermined
initial-operation mode or automatically actuates the switch
corresponding to the predetermined initial-operation mode (without
rotation of the free rotation-type rotary dial 420). Once the
switch is actuated, the circuit is complete and when the controller
200 detects that the vehicular power state is switched ON, the
controller 200 communicates with the vehicle lighting system to
actuate the function of the predetermined initial-operation mode.
In embodiments, when the free rotation-type dial 420 is rotated
further from an end rotation position corresponding to an operation
mode, such further rotation indicates to the controller 200 that
the operation mode corresponds to an OFF function even when the
position corresponding to the OFF function is provided at the
opposite side of the free rotation-type rotary dial 420.
In embodiments, the selection indicators 432, 434, 436, 438 are
illuminable light sources (e.g., LED) that illuminate when movement
of the free rotation-type rotary dial 420 within the rotation range
corresponds to a position associated with a selected operation
mode. In embodiments, the selection indicators 432, 434, 436, 438
may illuminate in conjunction with illumination of a symbol
identifying the function of the selected operation mode on the
stationary housing portion 410. In addition, the illuminated light
sources may have one of or any combination of multi-color, flashing
or intermittent lighting functionality as well.
A non-limiting embodiment of another latch-type rotary switch 600
will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3, 6A and 6B. Inasmuch
as the structure of latch-type rotary switch 600 is similar to that
described with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B similar
reference numbers are used to refer to those components previously
described and thus further detail of the structure is not described
below. Thus, as shown, e.g., in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in addition to a
stationary housing portion 610 and a latch-type rotary dial 620,
the latch-type rotary switch 600 further includes a push button 650
provided such that the stationary housing portion 610 is located
between the latch-type rotary dial 620 and the push button 650. In
embodiments, the push button 650 is provided at a central section
of the stationary housing portion 610 flanked by a plurality of
symbols representing the various vehicle lighting system operation
modes around an outer periphery thereof. This arrangement
prioritizes the operation mode located on the push button 650. That
is, no matter what position the latch-type rotary dial 620 is at,
the operation mode defined by actuation of the push button 650 only
requires a single action. In embodiments, the AUTO function is
associated with the push button 650 to set a prioritized operation
mode. Arranging the AUTO function on the push button 650 makes it
readily accessible and thus increases priority of the function and
safety to the motorist.
The push button 650 defines a position corresponding to one of the
plurality of operation modes. The selection of the operation mode
defined by the push button 650 is identified by a selection
indicator 660 on the push button 650 itself, separate from the
selection indicator 630 provided on the latch-type rotary dial 620
that is provided to align with and identify selection of the other
operations modes 612, 614, 616. The operation mode identified by
the selection indicator 660 on the push button 650 is actuated when
the push button 650 receives a force to move the same relative to
both the stationary housing portion 610 and the latch-type rotary
dial 620. In embodiments, the push button 650 is movable relative
to both the stationary housing portion 610 and the latch-type
rotary dial 620 in an axial direction relative to a rotation
direction of the latch-type rotary dial 620, although it is
contemplated that the push button 650 may be a toggle-type or
multi-directional push button to enhance functionality of the
latch-type rotary switch 600 (including more than one prioritized
operation mode). For example, each toggle direction or directional
deflection may correspond to a different prioritized operation mode
provided on the push button 650. In embodiments, the push button
650 may also be a momentary-type style push button.
As shown in FIG. 2, the rotary-type switch control system
controller 200 is configured to control a position of the
latch-type rotary dial 620 corresponding to one of the plurality of
operation modes of the rotary-type switch based on one of an OFF
vehicular power state or an ON vehicular power state as well. As
shown, the controller 200 is connected to at least one power switch
220 for detecting the ON/OFF state of the vehicular power source,
the plurality of operation mode position sensors 240 for detecting
the plurality of positions 612, 614, 616, 618 corresponding to the
plurality of operation modes, and an actuator 260 for rotating the
latch-type rotary dial 620 to any one of the plurality of positions
612, 614, 616, so as to initiate the selected vehicle lighting
function. The controller 200 is also configured to actuate the
rotary switch (without rotation of the latch-type rotary dial 620)
to be in position 618 on the push button 650 based on input
received by the controller 200.
In operation, while the vehicular power state is ON, when the push
button 650 is actuated, regardless of the selected operation mode
corresponding to the position identified by the selection indicator
630, the controller 200 controls the latch-type rotary switch 600
to automatically set the operation mode to the operation mode
defined by actuation of the push button 650 and the selection
indicator 660 is illuminated to identify the selection. It is noted
that when the selection indicator 660 is illuminated, and the push
button 650 is again depressed, controller 200 may be configured to
switch the operation mode from AUTO to OFF or to the operation mode
identified by selection indicator 630. In addition, when the
vehicular power state is OFF, regardless of the position of the
selection indicator 630 or 660 corresponding to the selected
operation mode, the controller 200 controls the latch-type rotary
switch 600 to automatically set the operation mode to a
predetermined initial-operation mode corresponding to an
initial-operation position at one of either the push button 650 or
one of the plurality of positions 612, 614, 616 at the stationary
housing portion 610, such that when the vehicular power state is
ON, the predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated. As shown
in FIGS. 6A and 6B, when the vehicular power source is OFF, the
operation mode switches from the TAIL function identified by the
selection indicator 630 to the AUTO function (the predetermined
initial-operation mode) identified by the selection indicator
660.
In embodiments, the push button 650 is set to be the
initial-operation position 618 corresponding to the predetermined
initial-operation mode, and when the vehicular power state is OFF,
regardless of the position of the selection indicator 630 or 660
corresponding to the selected operation mode, the controller 200
controls the latch-type rotary switch 600 to automatically set the
operation mode to the predetermined initial-operation mode
corresponding to the initial-operation position 618 at the push
button 650 such that when the vehicular power state is ON, the
predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated. As shown, e.g.,
in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the predetermined initial-operation mode is
AUTO.
A non-limiting embodiment of a further latch-type rotary switch 700
will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3, 7A and 7B. Inasmuch
as the structure of latch-type rotary switch 700 is similar to that
described with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 6A and 6B
similar reference numbers are used to refer to those components
previously described and thus further detail of the structure is
not described below.
As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, one of the plurality of positions
corresponding to one of the plurality of operation modes is a
position defined at the push button 750 that is provided at the
stationary housing portion 710 and identified by indicia 760
provided on the push button 750 itself. Another one of the
plurality of positions defined outside of the push button 750 is
designated as the initial-operation position 718 corresponding to
the predetermined initial-operation mode. While the operation mode
identified by indicia 760 is disclosed, it is contemplated that the
operation mode of the push button 750 may also be identified by a
selection indicator as well.
As shown in FIG. 2, the controller 200 is configured to control
position of the latch-type rotary dial 720 corresponding to one of
the plurality of operation modes of the rotary-type switch based on
one of an OFF vehicular power state or an ON vehicular power state
as well. As shown, the controller 200 is connected to at least one
power switch 220 for detecting the ON/OFF state of the vehicular
power source, the plurality of operation mode position sensors 240
for detecting the plurality of positions 712, 714, 716, 718
corresponding to the plurality of operation modes, and an actuator
260 for rotating the latch-type rotary dial 720 to any one of the
plurality of positions 714, 716, 718 so as to initiate the selected
vehicle lighting function. The controller 200 is also configured to
actuate the latch-type rotary switch 700 (without rotation of the
latch-type rotary dial 720) to be in the position 712 on the push
button 750 based on input received by the controller 200.
In operation, when the vehicular power state is OFF, regardless of
the position identified by selection indicator 730 or 770
corresponding to the selected operation mode, the controller 200
controls the latch-type rotary dial 720 to automatically rotate the
selection indicator 730 to the initial-operation position 718
corresponding to the predetermined initial-operation mode such that
when the vehicular power state is ON, the predetermined
initial-operation mode is actuated. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B,
when the vehicular power state is OFF, both selection indicators
730 and 770 identify the predetermined initial-operation mode
selection. It is noted that while both selection indicators 730 and
770 are illuminated, it is contemplated that only one of the
selection indicators 730 and 770 is illuminated.
As shown in FIG. 3, the rotary-type electrical circuit 300 is
suitable for use with both latch-type rotary switches 600 and 700
as well. When the vehicle power source is ON, the latch-type rotary
dial 620 (720) may be rotated such that a switch 310 corresponding
to each of the plurality of positions 612 (712), 614 (714), 616
(716), 618 (718) on the stationary housing portion 610 (710) may be
actuated. When the latch-type rotary dial 620 (720) aligns with any
one of the plurality of positions the corresponding switch is
actuated to complete the circuit and the controller 200
communicates with the vehicle lighting system to perform the
function of the selected operation mode that corresponds to the
actuated switch. When the vehicle power source is OFF, regardless
of the aligned position of the selection indicator and the selected
operation mode, the switch corresponding to the predetermined
initial-operation mode is actuated and the controller 200 in turn
communicates with the actuator 260 to automatically set the
operation mode to a predetermined initial-operation mode
corresponding to an initial-operation position at one of either the
push button 650 (position 618) or position 718 at the stationary
housing portion 710, such that when the vehicular power state is
ON, the predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated. Thus,
when the controller 200 detects that the vehicular power state is
switched ON, the controller 200 communicates with the vehicle
lighting system to actuate the function of the predetermined
initial-operation mode.
A non-limiting embodiment of a momentary-type rotary switch 800
will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 8A, 8B, 10A, 10B, 10C
and 11. The momentary-type rotary switch 800 includes a panel
portion 810 that includes a plurality of positions 812, 814, 816
that respectively correspond to a plurality of operation modes of
the rotary-type switch, wherein each position of the plurality of
positions 812, 814, 816 may include a selection indicator 832, 834,
836 that identifies a selected operation mode. The momentary-type
rotary switch 800 also includes a momentary-type rotary dial 820
that is biased toward a home position 825 and configured to rotate
relative to the panel portion 810 and select one of the plurality
of operation modes at the corresponding position identified by the
corresponding selection indicators 832, 834, 836 on the panel
portion 810. The momentary-type rotary dial 820 may also serve as a
push button 850.
The push button 850 includes a prioritized-access position 818
corresponding to a prioritized-access operation mode and identified
by a prioritized-access selection indicator 838 on the push button
850 itself. The selection indicator 838 is separate from the
selection indicators 832, 834, 836 provided on the panel portion
810 to identify selection of the other operations modes. The
operation mode identified by the selection indicator 838 on the
push button 850 is actuated when the push button 850 receives a
force to move the same relative to the panel portion 810. In
embodiments the push button 850 is movable relative to the panel
portion 810 in an axial direction relative to a rotation direction
of the momentary-type rotary dial 820. This arrangement prioritizes
the operation mode located on the push button 850 similar to that
discussed with respect to push buttons 650 and 750 described above.
That is, no matter what operation mode has been selected, the
operation mode defined by actuation of the push button 850 only
requires a single action. In embodiments, the AUTO function is
associated with the push button 850 and is the prioritized-access
operation mode. Arranging the AUTO function on the push button 850
makes it readily accessible and thus increases priority of the
function and safety to the motorist. In embodiments, it is
contemplated that the push button 850 may be a toggle-type or
multi-directional push button to enhance functionality of the
momentary-type rotary switch 800 (including more than one
prioritized operation mode). For example, each toggle direction or
directional deflection may correspond to a different prioritized
operation mode provided on the push button 850. In embodiments, the
push button 850 may also be a momentary-type style push button.
As will be described in detail below, the momentary-type rotary
dial 820 has a pushing shape profile such that a change in altitude
of a pusher of a sensor corresponds to a change in operation mode
so that when the dial 820 rotates, the momentary-type rotary switch
800 recognizes the position based on the change in altitude of the
pusher and actuates the operation mode corresponding to the
selected function of the vehicle lighting system.
As shown in FIG. 2, the controller 200 is configured to control a
position of the momentary-type rotary dial 820 corresponding to one
of the plurality of operation modes of the rotary-type switch based
on one of an OFF vehicular power state or an ON vehicular power
state as well. As shown, the controller 200 is connected to at
least one power switch 220 for detecting the ON/OFF state of the
vehicular power source, the plurality of operation mode position
sensors 240 for detecting the plurality of positions 812, 814, 816,
818 corresponding to the plurality of operation modes, and an
actuator 260 for momentarily rotating the momentary-type rotary
dial 820 to actuate the rotary switch to be in any one of the
plurality of positions 812, 814, 816 identified by the selection
indicators 832, 834, 836 provided on the panel portion or for
actuating the momentary-type rotary switch 800 to be in the
prioritized access position 818 on the momentary-type rotary dial
820 identified by the selection indicator 838 based on input
received by the controller 200.
In embodiments, when the push button 850 is actuated, regardless of
the selected operation mode on either the panel portion 810 or the
push button 850, the controller 200 controls the momentary-type
rotary switch 800 to set the operation mode to that defined by
actuation of the push button 850. In addition, when the vehicular
power state is OFF, regardless of the position identified by the
selection indicator corresponding to the selected operation mode on
either the panel portion 810 or the momentary-type rotary dial 820,
the controller controls the momentary-type rotary switch 800 to
either automatically set the operation mode to that defined by
actuation of the push button 850 or that defined by one of the
plurality of positions 812, 814, 816 and identified by one of the
selection indicators 832, 834, 836 on the panel portion 810. In
embodiments, the operation mode defined by the prioritized access
position 818 is an initial-operation position corresponding to a
predetermined initial-operation mode such that when the vehicular
power state is ON, the predetermined initial-operation mode is
actuated. In other embodiments, the operation mode defined by one
of the plurality of positions 812, 814, 816 is the initial
operation position.
A non-limiting embodiment of another momentary-type rotary switch
900 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 9A, 9B, 9C and 11.
The momentary-type rotary switch 900 includes a panel portion 910
that includes a plurality of positions 912, 914, 916 that
respectively correspond to a plurality of operation modes of the
rotary-type switch, wherein each position of the plurality of
positions 912, 914, 916 may include a selection indicator 932, 934,
936 that identifies a selected operation mode. The momentary-type
rotary switch 900 also includes a momentary-type rotary dial 920
that is biased toward a home position 925 and configured to rotate
relative to the panel portion 910 and select one of the plurality
of operation modes at the corresponding position identified by the
corresponding selection indicators 932, 934, 936 on the panel
portion 910. The momentary-type rotary dial 920 may also serve as a
push button 950 similar to push button 850 described above. In
embodiments, the momentary-type rotary dial 920 is provided at a
central section of the stationary housing portion 910 flanked by
the plurality of symbols representing the various vehicle lighting
system operation modes around an outer periphery thereof. This
arrangement prioritizes the operation mode located on the push
button 950.
In this embodiment, the momentary-type rotary switch 900 is
configured to associate the number of successive rotations of the
momentary-type rotary dial 920 away from the home position 925 and
back with one of the plurality of positions corresponding to one of
the plurality of operation modes identified by the corresponding
selection indicator on the panel portion 910. Thus, as shown in
FIGS. 9A and 9B, e.g., if the momentary-type rotary dial 920 is
successively rotated twice in the clockwise direction, the
momentary-type rotary switch 900 detects the number of rotations
and associates them with the second position in the clockwise
direction, which corresponds to the HEAD function of the vehicle
lighting system.
As shown in FIG. 9C, both momentary-type rotary dials 820, 920 have
a pushing shape profile configured to interact with a rotation
detector 1003 which includes at least one pusher 1005 that
communicates with the controller 200 to allow the controller 200 to
determine the selected operation mode. Each pusher 1005 is provided
to communicate with at least one of the operation position sensors
240 by providing feedback to the controller 200 based on a rotation
of the momentary-type rotary dials 820, 920. Each pusher 1005
extends through the panel portion 810, 910 toward the
momentary-type rotary dials 820, 920 and is provided below an upper
surface of the momentary-type rotary dials 820, 920. Each pusher
1005 includes a contact piece 1015 that is configured to engage or
contact a lower surface of a portion of the momentary-type rotary
dials 820, 920 and an elastically deformable base support 1007
configured to elastically bias the pusher 1005 toward the
momentary-type rotary dial 820, 920. The pusher 1005 is elastically
biased toward the momentary-type rotary dials 820, 920 to initiate
engagement or contact between the contact piece 1015 and the lower
surface of the portion of the momentary-type rotary dials 820, 920.
The contact piece 1015 is provided between the pusher 1005 and
momentary-type rotary dial 820, 920 and is also elastically biased
toward the momentary-type rotary dial 820, 920 by the elastically
deformable base support 1007 and/or a separate spring. It is noted
that the contact piece 1015 is also configured to generate a
click-type feedback (e.g., haptic and/or audible feedback) to
confirm to the user that the rotation of the momentary-type rotary
dial 820, 920 resulted in selection of an operation mode. In
embodiments, the elastically deformable base support 1007 is a
rubber dome that supports the pusher 1005 from a lower side
thereof. It is contemplated that each of the components of the
rotation detector 1003 (i.e., the pusher 1005, the base support
1007 and the contact piece 1015) may be a single integral component
or separate parts that are assembled and connected to one
another.
In operation, when the momentary-type rotary dial 820, 920 is
rotated, the rotation corresponds to a change in altitude of the
pusher 1005. The change in altitude of the pusher 1005, in turn,
corresponds to an actuation of a switch that allows the controller
200 to determine a change in operation mode. Thus, when the
momentary-type rotary dial 820, 920 rotates, the momentary-type
rotary switch 800, 900 recognizes the selected operation mode
tinged on a rotation range or a number of turns of the dial 820,
920 so that the operation mode corresponding to the selected
function of the vehicle lighting system is actuated.
FIG. 10A shows an exploded view of the momentary-type rotary switch
800 including the panel portion 810, the momentary-type rotary dial
820 and the rotation detector 1003. FIG. 10B shows a perspective
view of the momentary-type rotary dial 820 including an engagement
part 1020 and FIG. 10C shows a partial cross-sectional view of the
engagement part 1020.
As shown in FIG. 10B, the momentary-type rotary dial 820 includes
an outer housing 1025 having a recessed opening 1030 defined by
outer side walls 1035 extending downward from an upper-most surface
1040 of the momentary-type rotary dial 820 toward the panel portion
810 when assembled. The engagement part 1020 is disposed within the
recessed opening 1030 of the momentary-type rotary dial 820 and
also extends downward from the upper-most surface 1040 toward the
panel portion 810. It is noted that the engagement part 1020 may be
removably disposed or integrally fixed within the recessed opening
1030 of the momentary-type rotary dial 820.
The engagement part 1020 includes an outer housing 1045 having a
recessed opening 1050 defined by outer side walls 1055 extending
downward from an upper-most surface 1060 of the engagement part
1020 toward the panel portion 810 when assembled. The recessed
opening 1050 is configured to receive a rotary shaft that is
provided to support rotation of the engagement part 1020, as well
as the momentary-type rotary dial 820, relative to the panel
portion 810.
The outer sidewalls 1055 of the engagement part 1020 define at
least one detent 1065 provided on a rear surface 1070 thereof.
Surfaces of the outer side walls 1055 defining the detent 1065 are
configured to engage the at least one contact piece 1015 of the
rotation detector 1003.
As shown in FIG. 10C, the detent 1065 is defined by a plurality of
inclined surfaces 1075, 1080, 1085 provided along the rear surface
1070 of the outer side walls 1055. In embodiments, each of the
inclined surfaces 1075, 1080, 1085 corresponds to one of the
plurality of positions 812, 814, 816, corresponding to one of the
plurality of operation modes identified by the corresponding
selection indicators 832, 834, 836 on the panel portion 810. It is
contemplated that additional inclined surfaces may be provided to
define the detent 1065 and correspond to additional contemplated
operation modes. In embodiments, the momentary-type rotary dial 820
is generally cylindrical, although other shapes suitable for
convenient grasping and rotation of the same including, e.g.,
cube-shaped, polygonal-shaped or any other ergonomic shape, are
contemplated.
In operation, when the momentary-type rotary dial 820 is in the
home position 825, the contact piece 1015 of the rotation detector
1003 is retained within the detent 1065 of engagement part 1020. In
embodiments, when the momentary-type rotary dial 820 in the home
position, the contact piece 1015 is provided at an upper-most
position of the detent 1065 relative to the lower-most portion of
the rear surface 1070, although it is contemplated that the contact
piece 1015 may alternatively be provided at the lower-most position
of the detent 1065 closest to the lower-most portion of the rear
surface 1070.
When the momentary-type rotary dial 820 is partially rotated within
a predetermined rotation range, the contact piece 1015 engages or
contacts a first inclined surface 1080 of the plurality of inclined
surfaces. The first inclined surface 1080 of the plurality of
inclined surfaces is thus moved relative to the contact piece 1015
to actuate the rotation detector 1003. In particular, when
contacted or engaged with the first inclined surface 1080, the
contact piece 1015 is urged downward against its biasing direction
to actuate the pusher 1005 and deform the base support 1007, which
are also urged downward against the biasing direction. As a result,
when the contact piece 1015 engages or contacts the first inclined
surface 1080 (during a rotation) and before the momentary-type
rotary dial 820 returns to the home position 825, the rotation
detector 1003 detects the rotation and communicates with one of the
operation position sensors 240 connected to the controller 200 to
allow the rotary-type switch 800 to determine the selected
operation mode. In this embodiment, when the position is
identified, the corresponding selection indicator 834 on the panel
portion 810 is illuminated, and the click-type feedback from the
contact piece 1015 is generated to confirm to the user that the
rotation of the momentary-type rotary dial 820 resulted in
selection of an operation mode.
When the momentary-type rotary dial 820 is further rotated within
the predetermined rotation range during a single rotation operation
(in other words, when the contact piece 1015 moves beyond the first
inclined surface 1080), the contact piece 1015 is moved relative to
a second inclined surface 1085 of the plurality of inclined
surfaces such that the rotation detector 1003 detects the rotation
and communicates with another one of the operation position sensors
240 connected to the controller 200 to allow the rotary-type switch
800 to determine the selected operation mode (identified by the
corresponding selection indicator on the panel portion 810) before
the momentary-type rotary dial 820 returns to the home position. In
this embodiment, when the position is identified, the corresponding
selection indicator 836 on the panel portion 810 is illuminated,
and the click-type feedback from the contact piece 1015 is
generated to confirm to the user that the rotation of the
momentary-type rotary dial 820 resulted in selection of another
operation mode.
To differentiate between selected operation modes, the engagement
part 1020 is designed such that the first inclined surface 1080 has
a slope angle .theta..alpha. different than a slope angle
.theta..beta. of the second inclined surface 1085. The difference
in slope angle .DELTA..theta. between the inclined surfaces 1080
and 1085 corresponds to a change in altitude of the rotation
detector 103 (i.e., the pusher 1005, the base support 1007, and the
contact piece 1015) when the momentary-type rotary dial 820 is
rotated. This configuration allows the controller 200 and the
momentary-type rotary switch 800 to associate different inclined
surfaces with different positions and their respective
corresponding operation modes.
As shown in FIG. 11, the rotary-type switch electrical circuit 1100
is suitable for use with both momentary-type rotary switches 800
and 900. When the vehicle power source is ON, the momentary-type
rotary dial 820 (920) may be momentarily rotated or pushed such
that a switch 1110 corresponding to each of the plurality of
positions 812 (912), 814 (914), 816 (916), 818 (918) on the panel
portion 810 (910) may be actuated. When the rotation or depression
of the momentary-type rotary dial 820(920) actuates the switch 1110
corresponding to any one of the plurality of positions the circuit
is complete and the controller 200 communicates with the vehicle
lighting system to perform the function of the selected operation
mode that corresponds to actuated switch. When the vehicle power
source is OFF, regardless of the selected operation mode, the
controller 200 automatically actuates the switch to set the
operation mode to a predetermined initial-operation mode
corresponding to an initial-operation position at one of either the
push button 850 (950) or the designated position at the panel
portion 810 (910), such that when the vehicular power state is ON,
the predetermined initial-operation mode is actuated. When the
controller 200 detects that the vehicular power state is switched
ON, the controller 200 communicates with the vehicle lighting
system to actuate the function of the predetermined
initial-operation mode.
Accordingly, the rotary-type switches described above enable
vehicle lighting to be controlled in a way that reduces the
necessity of user input to minimize user error and improve motorist
safety.
While the rotary-type switches have been described with reference
to several exemplary embodiments, it is understood that the words
that have been used are words of description and illustration,
rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made within the
purview of the appended claims, as presently stated and as amended,
without departing from the scope and spirit of the rotary dial
assembly in its aspects. Although the rotary-type switches have
been described with reference to particular means, materials and
embodiments, the rotary-type switches are not intended to be
limited to the particulars disclosed; rather the described
rotary-type switch configurations should be considered to extend to
all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses such as
are within the scope of the appended claims.
Although the present specification may describe components and
functions that may be implemented in particular embodiments with
reference to particular standards and protocols, the disclosure is
not limited to such standards and protocols. For example,
components of the non-limiting embodiments of the various
electrical circuits represent examples of the state of the art.
Such standards are periodically superseded by equivalents having
essentially the same functions. Accordingly, replacement standards
and protocols having the same or similar functions are considered
equivalents thereof.
The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended
to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various
embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a
complete description of all of the elements and features of the
disclosure described herein. Many other embodiments may be apparent
to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. Other
embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure, such
that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made
without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally,
the illustrations are merely representational and may not be drawn
to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be
exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly,
the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative
rather than restrictive.
One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to
herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term "invention"
merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit
the scope of this application to any particular invention or
inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have
been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated
that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or
similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments
shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent
adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of
the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically
described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art
upon reviewing the description.
The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R.
.sctn. 1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will
not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the
claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various
features may be grouped together or described in a single
embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This
disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that
the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly
recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect,
inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all of the
features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the following
claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each
claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject
matter.
The preceding description of the disclosed embodiments is provided
to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present
disclosure. As such, the above disclosed subject matter is to be
considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended
claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements,
and other embodiments which fall within the true spirit and scope
of the present disclosure. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by
law, the scope of the present disclosure is to be determined by the
broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and
their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the
foregoing detailed description.
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